Heusgen: Recognize Palestine, a strong message of solidarity

Former Munich Security Conference head Christoph Heusgen has called on the German government to recognize a Palestinian state, especially in light of the suffering in the Gaza Strip.

In an article for the RND media group, Heusgen argued that such a move would be seen as a "particularly strong gesture," given Germany's reputation as a friend of Israel. The former advisor to Angela Merkel added that while recognition would not immediately change the situation, it would send a strong message of solidarity to the Palestinian people.

Several countries, including France, Canada, and Australia, have announced plans to recognize a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly in September. The German government, however, has stated that it does not consider this an option at present.

Heusgen warned that Israel risks becoming an "apartheid state" as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejects the establishment of a Palestinian state and supports settlement violence in the West Bank. He stressed that Israel's security is a matter of national interest for Germany, but it requires not being isolated globally.

Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, has also announced a similar move.

Source: APE-MPE-dpa